Is the GripTape Learning Challenge for real?

Yes! Check out our Challengers page to see what other youth have done, and our Youth Leadership Board page if you want to contact a Board member to ask more questions.

Is this only related to school or academics?

It doesn’t have to be! This is about your passions and interests, and you decide what and how you want to learn. Each Challenger decides for themselves, so your Challenge could be something tied to school or totally unrelated to academics — it’s up to you!

Does my Challenge have to be on a certain topic?

No — it’s completely up to you.

How do I determine how long I need for my project?

You have up to 10 weeks to complete your Challenge, but you could also finish it sooner if this is what you decide. And, of course, you can keep pursuing your learning independently for as long as you want!

How can I use my grant?

It’s up to you, but here are some examples of what former Challengers have used it for:

purchased a plane ticket to Atlanta to interview and learn from a plastic surgeon
purchased equipment, like cameras, microphones, or material for making clothing
booked studio time to record music
bought books
paid for conference fees and the bus ticket to get there
purchased wires, lights, and other hardware to build a lighting system
bought every part — hardware and software — needed to assemble a computer
bought materials to invent a new soldering tool
paid for business license fees
paid fees for an intellectual property lawyer
covered fees to host a website
purchased access for a month to the top psychology research website

How long do I have to spend the $500?

You have to spend your grant by the time your Challenge is completed.

What if I want to do something that costs more than $500?

You can use the $500 that GripTape provides and fundraise for the additional money.
You can modify your plans so they only require the $500 GripTape offers.

Can the $500 be used to pay other people for services or items?

Yes, but no more that ⅓ of the time you give to your Learning Challenge can be spent in adult-led experiences like classes. This is an opportunity for you to lead!

Can the money be used for travel?

Yes — you decide how to use the grant!

What if I don’t think I’m qualified to do this? I don’t think I have the skill, and I’ve never had this opportunity before.

There aren’t requirements to become a Challenger, just a desire and willingness to learn.
This is for every young person. We purposely and specifically support youth of all different backgrounds because we want all young people to be successful.
When we review applications, we’re interested in how passionate you are about your topic and why it matters to you.. Your Challenge is NOT about your school performance.
You can submit your application in lots of different formats, including a video, song, poem, essay, or PowerPoint. Just follow the instructions on our online application.

What if I’m not yet 14 years old?

You have to be 14 when you apply to the Learning Challenge.

Do I have to do the Challenge on my own, or can I do it with friends?

You apply for the Challenge on your own, and if you become a Challenger, you can involve others. This is your decision.

What will make my application stand out?

Passion: You have to be able to tell us what you’re passionate about and why — do not apply unless you really want to do this!
Success: Explain how this learning is tied to your success, now or in the future.
Learning: We need to know what you’re going to learn, not just what you want to do.

What happens next if I’m selected to become a GripTape Challenger?

You’ll get an email or text inviting you to become a Challenger, and you need to reply within the timeframe in the message.
We’ll send an email with instructions about a few things you need to do, like taking a survey and thinking about your grant request.
Your GripTape Champion — an adult supports you throughout your Challenge — will reach out to set up your first video call to talk about your learning goals, plans, and vision. You’ll also schedule regular check-in calls with your Champion.
We’ll send your grant in the form you choose (direct deposit, check, or Visa gift card).
You can get started on your Learning Challenge anytime, but you have to complete it within 10 weeks of your Orientation Call.

Do youth stay involved with GripTape once the Challenge is over?

Once you’re part of GripTape, you’ll have access to a new community that will never go away. If you want to continue to connect with other Challengers or the GripTape team, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so — we’re a family.

Entrepreneur’s Challenge

How long do I have to complete my Challenge?

You have up to 10 weeks to complete your Challenge, but you could also finish it sooner if this is what you decide. And, of course, you can keep pursuing your business independently for as long as you want!

What does GripTape offer?

GripTape will provide a Champion to encourage you, a Peer Entrepreneur to mentor you, and up to $500 to support your business venture.

What does GripTape require of me?

We ask that you take a few surveys at the beginning and end of the Challenge. We also ask that you stay in communication with your Champion and Peer Entrepreneur.

Do I have to complete assignments or complete a final project?

No. We do not require you to turn in any sort of work or do any kind of end report or project. We hope that you’ll share any stories, pictures, videos, or other documentation of your experience with us to inspire other youth, but this is your decision!

How can I use my grant? Are there any rules about what kind of business I can start?

No. You decide, it’s up to you!

FrEquently asked questions